Guide to Specifying Wire Harnesses

A wire harness is a common and effective tool for keeping multiple wires within a piece of equipment in order. On a more basic level, it’s the exterior covering, or sleeve, that encases and protects an inner conductor or bundle of conductors. Known for their straightforwardness, effectiveness, and low cost, these simple casings are designed to streamline and organize multi-wire systems while protecting the wires from the elements, resulting in a cleaner, safer working environment.

As small as they are, however, wire harnesses can vary widely. In fact, most companies customize them so that they’re better suited to particular environments and applications. We’re here to help outline the basics of these essential implements so that you can find the perfect type for your company.

Types of Wire Harnesses

Wire harnesses can be made from a number of durable materials. Some of the most common include:

PVC

Vinyl

Thermoplastic elastomer

Polyurethane

Polyethylene

The specific material used in a harness largely depends on its surrounding environment. If the wires are run in a particularly damp environment, for example, the harness should be of a material that effectively resists moisture such as polyethylene.

Regardless of the material with which it’s made, wire harnesses can be further specialized to suit particular applications. Additional features often found in wire harnesses include:

Wire ties

Lacing

Insulation materials

Custom colors

Heat-shrink coatings

Custom labeling or barcoding

Four-color ink stamping

Individual tagging

Independent circuit IDs

Polypropylene, nylon, and paper fillers

Custom shielding

Just as certain materials are better suited to certain environments, certain features of wire harnesses are better suited to certain applications. Any wires at an increased risk of abrasion, for example, should be enclosed in a harness with heat-shrink coating, since heat-shrink coating is designed to minimize the effects of abrasion.

Applications of Wire Harnesses

Wire harnesses are highly versatile products that are well-suited to use in nearly every industry. Aerospace, automobiles, medicine, telecommunications, and commercial construction, as examples, constantly depend on them for smooth operations. Wire harnesses can also be found in home electronics, audio and visual equipment, and household appliances.

At Consolidated Electronic Wire & Cable, we’re proud to offer a wide selection of harnesses and cable assemblies that meet even the strictest standards. We can specialize in personalized solutions to common industrial challenges, offering all customers specialized shielding, fillers, materials, identification, and style. Our harnesses can accommodate systems up to 600 volts (UL) or 3000 volts (military) and can withstand temperatures ranging from -65 °C (-85 °F) to 250 °C (482 °F), ensuring functionality in any environment.

For over a century, Consolidated Wire has set the standard in industrial wiring and cabling, helping companies of every size develop lasting solutions to all of their electrical challenges. To learn more about our extensive wire and cable harness offerings and explore their benefits, check out our catalog today.

The Consolidated Difference

Consolidated Electronic Wire & Cable is a full line source for all standard and custom electronic wire, cable, power supply cords, molded cable assemblies and wiring harnesses. We have been serving the needs of our industry for over 93 years.